Special memorial for murdered teenager Babacar Diagne, as foster mother remembers boy who ‘lived life to the fullest’

A special tribute is to be unveiled in memory of a teenager murdered in Coventry. Babacar Diagne was just 15 when he was found stabbed to death in the meadow near Petitor Crescent, Wood End, on the evening of 5 February 2020.

He was left for dead by three teenagers who were jailed for life for his senseless murder. Now, four years later, not only are tributes being paid to the teenager who is ‘wanted’ by so many, but a special donation is being made to the city in his name.

“Babacar was caring and kind to everyone,” said Shagufta Bano, Babacar’s foster mother. “He was part of my family, even if it was just for a while.

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She continued: “It made me laugh. “He was always talking about the importance of health and how we have a life that we should live to the fullest. When I went shopping, she encouraged me to get the healthiest option and the best items for me.

“He influenced my life in a positive way because whenever I go shopping I think of him. He is missed not only by me but also by my family.”

At the time of his death, Babacar was a foster child supported by his foster family and Midlands-based Foster Care Associations (FCA). To pay tribute to Babacar’s life, FCA’s youth council – made up of foster children from the local area – decided to raise money for a blood kit to donate in the teenager’s name.

They have now raised enough money to install one of the kits as part of Coventry’s ‘Safe Space’ initiative, which aims to not only raise awareness of knife crime, but have the potential to save a life.

A special commemoration is being held at 4pm on Tuesday, May 28 at the Jubilee Crescent Community Center in Radford. There will be participants from the FCA, Coventry City Council, West Mercia Police and Jubilee Crescent Youth Center and a commemorative event will be held after the blood kit has been donated.

“Anyone who knew Babacar or would like to pay their respects is welcome,” an FCA spokesman said.

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